Abu Dhabi, Sep 10: Konkani Community of St. Joseph’ Cathedral Abu Dhabi celebrated the Feast of Nativity (Monthi Fest) solemnly with traditional zeal and gaiety at the St Joseph’s Cathedral premises on Thursday, September 10, 2015.

The outdoor ceremony commenced at 7.45 PM with little children and teenagers showering colourful flowers to show their love and affection towards infant Mary. The impressive scene was remarkable with little kids thronging around the graceful statue of Infant Mother Mary with basket full of fresh flowers, near the church Marian grotto, enthusiastically participating in the spectacular ceremony singing the traditional “Sakkad Sangatha Melyam ani Mariyek Hogolsiam”, which echoed the church premises, the rhythm filling the air creating a blessed ambience.

The devotees braving the hot and humid weather had gathered in large numbers in the church premises. The new corn (Novem), specially flown all the way from Mangalore for the occasion was blessed signifying the new harvest by H. E. Bishop Paul Hinder along with Parish Priest Fr. Johnson Kadukanmakal, OFM Cap., Fr. Valerian D’souza from Bishop’s house, Fr. Rodson Goes, spiritual Director of KCO and other Konkani prayer groups and Fr. Ashok Gonsalves, OFM Cap from St. Paul’s Church, Musaffah.

Later a short procession was taken around the church compound, carrying the decorated statue of Infant Mary bedecked with colourful flowers towards St. Theresa Church.

The concelebrated Mass was offered at the St. Theresa, Church by Fr. Rodson, Fr. Valerian and Fr. Ashok. As the symbol of new harvest, fresh fruits, flowers and vegetables were offered during the Mass by young children.

The Konkani Choir, with melodious hymns specially arranged and conducted for the occasion with the talented singers of the parish was commendable and elevated the spirit of the occasion.

At the beginning of the Holy Mass Fr. Johnson Kadukanmakal, – the Parish Priest of St. Joseph’s Church appreciated and thanked the Konkani Community for their enthusiasm and outstanding services towards the parish and lauded the devotion of the community towards Mother Mary.

Fr. Rodson in his homily narrated the service oriented simplicity of Mother Mary and called upon the congregation to follow the same. Fr. Rodson also thanked those who contributed towards the day’s function and appreciated the help of all those who selflessly volunteered towards the ceremony, specially members of KCO, the members of the Konkani choir and other Konkani groups as well as the untiring dedicated ushers, Lay Ministers, Alter boys/Girls of the parish.

The blessed new corn (Novem), was distributed to all devotees after the Mass.

As per K.C.O.’s tradition, light refreshments were served to all the attendees, symbolizing the spirit of unity and sharing among families on this special occasion. The celebration relived the memories of back home, wherein families join in and have a vegetarian meal together along with the Novem.

It can be recalled that the nativity feast in Konkani was initiated by KCO (Konkani Cultural Organization) almost 20 years ago and has become a permanent fixture every year and KCO’s efforts in uniting people of the community is appreciated by all. The arrangements made by KCO were excellent.

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